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Owner description: Special Holiday Hours:
Sunday, December 25, 2016 - Getty Villa will be closed
Tuesday, December 27, 2016 - Getty Villa will be open from 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday, January 1, 2017 - Getty Villa will be closed
Tuesday, January 3, 2017 - Getty Villa will be open from 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
This museum is dedicated to the art of the ancient Greeks, Romans and other classic civilizations.

Useful Information: Activities for young children, Activities for older children

This is one of my favorite museums. Not only is there a rich variety of museum pieces but the architecture of the building itself is an exhibit. The architecture of the Getty Villa is models after the Villa of the Papyri (which was thought to be owned by Julius Caesar father-in-law, Lucius Calpurnius Piso). They have made some alterations but regardless the attention to detail is amazing.

This museum sits overlooking Malibu and the ocean. What could be better? Picturesque to say the least. Make sure your phone/camera is charged and has plenty of space for lots of pictures. I love the pools and garden.

Tips: 1) Make reservations. This museum is free but reservations online are needed. http://www.getty.edu/visit/villa/plan/2) Parking is $15. Completely worth it. Covered parking, direct access. 3) It is easiest to enter going northbound on Highway 1 (PCH - Pacific Coast Highway)4) Photographs are allowed for all permanent exhibits. Do NOT take pictures of their rotating exhibit (usually in one section on the second floor). 5) Look on their website for special plays, exhibits, classes and events. They have different options for everyone! 6) Leave plenty of time for this museum. It can easily be an all day affair. 7) Bring a smartphone - they have a Getty App with audio built in! 8) Be sure to take at least one of the guided tours! You will not be disappointed.

One note: California has severe water shortage. At the time of this post, they currently do not have most of their pools filled with water. Give them a break - they are trying to be water conscious, the museum is still stunning, and you got in for free after all! :)

Ask TheMadScalpel about The Getty Villa

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This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC

While impressive to see, it does not come close the real Italy. The gardens upkeep seemed to be skimped on. With the water shortage in California, all of the pools were drained. The art was extensive for a private collector, but will disappoint if you ever traveled to Europe and saw the art there.

Ask neilsellers about The Getty Villa

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This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC

J Paul Getty acquired so many pieces of rare artwork. He displays many sculptures and pottery on a beautiful piece of property that's located right across from the Pacific Ocean. Built in the 1970s the architecture and grounds are absolutely gorgeous. Definitely worth the trip, admission is free parking is $15. You can't beat it on your next visit to Southern California!

Ask John V about The Getty Villa

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This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC